WINCHENDON — Forty-three acres of forest in Winchendon have been permanently protected, expanding MassWildlife’s Nineteenth Hill Wildlife Management Area east of Route 140 and connecting to a large, contiguous block of conserved land stretching south from downtown Winchendon.
The undeveloped property sits within the Millers River and Otter River watersheds and holds high-quality forest and wildlife habitat. MassWildlife will serve as the property’s long-term steward, according to an announcement from Athol-based Mount Grace Land Trust.
The Boucher and Mroz families’ land borders the property.
“We are thrilled that our land is being conserved for future generations and will not be developed,” said Cindy Boucher. “We’ve owned the land since 1978 and love walking it – taking in the beauty of the landscape and wildlife. Now that it’s protected, it means a great deal to know that the beauty of this place will be shared and enjoyed by others for years to come.”
“Winchendon has been our family’s connection to the natural world for over 100 years,” said Elaine Mroz. “For much of that time, the Bouchers have been our partners in defending the area against sprawl and urbanization. Our donation is in support of the Bouchers, of the people of Winchendon, and of the Commonwealth’s goals to ensure future generations will benefit from our natural spaces.”
The sale was made possible by property owners Roger and Cindy Boucher, with a financial contribution from the Mroz family that helped cover some of the costs associated with protecting the land. Mount Grace Land Trust facilitated the sale, connecting the Bouchers with MassWildlife and coordinating the partnership between both families and the state.
“Protecting nature is an investment in our wildlife and our way of life,” said Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Tom O’Shea. “Projects like this don’t happen overnight—they take tremendous partnership, collaboration, and leadership from conservation-minded landowners like the Boucher and Mroz families, who have the vision to preserve special places like this for future generations. Thank you to our partners at Mount Grace Land Trust, the families, and the community for protecting our state’s rich biodiversity and ensuring all have access to outdoor recreation.”
“It is incredible to see community come together to protect their backyards for wildlife, for outdoor access, and for clean water,” said Emma Ellsworth, executive director of Mount Grace. “The best way we can protect our farms and forests is by working hand-in-hand.”